Flood Forecasting and Warning

Status: Water Safety Statement

Spring-Like Conditions (Water Safety Statement extended)

Thursday, January 5, 2023 (4:00 PM)

Status: Water Safety Statement

The Raisin Region Conservation Authority (RRCA) is extending the Water Safety Statement, issued December 31, 2022, for the RRCA jurisdiction.

River and stream water levels remain elevated following last week’s snowmelt and recent rainfall. In particular, water levels and flows on the Beaudette River and Garry River remain high.

At this time, no further increase in water levels is expected. However, rivers and streams in the region remain at water levels typically seen only during spring melt. Water levels of Loch Garry, Middle Lake, and Mill Pond are being actively managed, and outflows from these lakes to the Garry River are expected to remain high through the coming days. The RRCA encourages continued vigilance around waterways during these spring-like water conditions.

Water levels are now declining slowly throughout the region, a trend that is expected to continue. Little further rainfall is forecast for the coming week, and a return to sustained below-zero temperatures is expected beginning Saturday, January 7.

This statement is in effect until Monday, January 9, 2023, at 9:00 AM. The RRCA will continue monitoring water levels and weather forecasts as part of its flood forecasting and warning program. Updates will be provided if conditions change.

For more information: Halya Petzold, Resource Specialist, 613-938-3611 ext. 244, halya.petzold@rrca.on.ca

Media contact: Vincent Pilon, Public Information Coordinator, 613-938-3611 ext. 229, vincent.pilon@rrca.on.ca


About Flood Forecasting and Warning in the RRCA

The Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry (MNRF) is responsible for flood related emergencies. Flood forecasting and warning has been delegated to Conservation Authorities. If a local emergency is declared, MNRF will work directly with the municipality and in consultation with the Conservation Authority.

The Raisin Region Conservation Authority monitors precipitation and water levels throughout Cornwall, South Glengarry, and large portions of North Glengarry and South Stormont.

About Flood Forecasting Notices

Normal
No flood conditions exist.

Watershed Conditions Statement - Water Safety
High flows, unsafe banks, melting ice or other factors that could be dangerous for recreational users such as anglers, canoeists, hikers, children, pets, etc. Flooding is not expected.

Watershed Conditions Statement - Flood Outlook
Early notice of the potential for flooding based on weather forecasts calling for heavy rain, snow melt, high wind or other conditions that could lead to high runoff, cause ice jams, lakeshore flooding or erosion.

Flood Watch
Flooding is possible in specific watercourses or municipalities. Municipalities, emergency services and individual landowners in flood-prone areas should prepare.

Flood Warning
Flooding is imminent or already occurring in specific watercourses or municipalities.

In the event of a flood status of anything other than normal, the RRCA will issue a media release and advise our member municipalities.

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